Method and apparatus for electromedical theraphy

ABSTRACT

An apparatus, for providing therapeutic electrical signals has a plurality of sets of electrodes, each set of electrodes comprising at least two electrodes for applying the therapeutic electrical signal to a user. The electrodes ( 60 ) are arranged on a flexible platform ( 50 ) which can substantially conform to surfaces of the user. In one embodiment, the sets of electrodes ( 60 ) comprise at least three electrodes arranged in a substantially chevron pattern with a centre electrode having the opposite potential to the side electrode. Different types of therapeutic electrical signals are generated by a signal generator ( 24 ) applying a base wave within a frequency of about 150 KHz to 180 KHz at different frequencies between about 2 to 100 times in a second. A switch selectively switches the different types of therapeutic electrical signals in the predetermined pattern and can decrease the therapeutic electrical signals from its maximum to its minimum within about 0.1 to 0.01 microseconds.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This invention relates to a method and apparatus for use inelectromedical therapy. More particularly, the present invention relatesto a method and apparatus for applying a therapeutic electrical signalto regions of a user's body. The therapeutic signal could be used forany type of therapy, including to relieve pain, to relieve stress, toapply electronic acupuncture and for transcutaneous electrical nervestimulation (TENS).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In the past, several types of methods and apparatuses to apply anelectrical signal in electromedical therapy have been used. However, theprior art methods and apparatuses generally provide a small number ofelectrodes to which the therapeutic electrical signal can be applied.This limits the area of the user's body to which the therapeutic signalscan be applied at any one time. As a result, the duration of therapy anduse of the apparatus by the user increase.

[0003] Furthermore, use of a small number of electrodes results in theelectrical signal being applied to the same area for an extended periodof time. This has been shown to create habituation effects. Habituationeffects generally result from the body filtering out the therapeuticelectrical signals being applied, thereby eliminating the positiveeffects of the therapeutic electrical signal. In addition, any benefitfrom the prior art device is usually limited to the time the therapeuticsignals are applied, and does not provide any lingering effects.

[0004] U.S. Pat. No. 3,851,651 to Icenbice, Jr. discloses an electricalfacial stimulator having eight individual electrodes in total attachedto different parts of the face. The electrodes are energized toelectrically stimulate the user's facial nerves and muscles. The facialstimulator of Icenbice, accordingly, provides a small number ofelectrodes which can be energized at a small and specific part of theuser's body, namely specific parts of the face.

[0005] Likewise, U.S. Pat. No. 5,527,357 to Springer discloses a maskhaving a rigid outer lining providing the required structural integrityto hold about ten electrodes at specific locations over the face. Theelectrodes provide electrical signals to ten specific critical points onthe face. Accordingly, Springer also suffers from the disadvantage thatthe mask provides a relatively small number of electrodes which provideelectrical signals to a small and specific part of the user's face.

[0006] Use of a small number of electrodes, such as in prior artdevices, requires the prior art devices to be periodically moved overthe user's body. In fact, some prior art devices have electrodes whichcan rotate to facilitate movement over the user's body. However, theseprior art devices are generally difficult for users to use on themselvesand require a therapist or assistant to apply the treatment. This isespecially the case where the treatment is being applied to the user'sback, and particularly the lower back, which is not easily accessible bythe user.

[0007] Furthermore, the prior art devices by and large generate anelectrical signal which could itself harm the user and/or cause pain.This results from the electrical signal having characteristics thatdamage the skin surface and otherwise hurt the patient or cause thepatient discomfort. While the beneficial effects of the electricalsignal often outweigh the temporary discomfort of the patient, thisdiscomfort sometimes causes patients not to use the prior artelectromedical apparatuses, or not use them as frequently as required inorder to provide effective long-term therapy.

[0008] Accordingly, the prior art devices suffer from severaldisadvantages. One of these disadvantages include that the prior artdevices generally only apply the electrical signal to a small region ofthe body at one time. Another disadvantage is that the prior art devicesoften require an assistant to apply the therapy. Another disadvantage isthat the therapeutic effects of the prior art devices are limited by thecorresponding habituative effects caused by the patient's own body. Afurther disadvantage is that the electrical signals applied by the priorart devices often cause pain, burns and/or other discomfort to thepatient because of the nature and the shape of the electrical signalbeing applied. A still further disadvantage of the prior art devices isthat their beneficial effects are limited to the duration of theprocedure, and do not provide any lingering beneficial effects whichcontinue after the procedure is completed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Accordingly, it is an object of this invention to at leastpartially overcome the disadvantages of the prior art. Also, it is anobject of this invention to provide an improved apparatus and method forproviding therapeutic electrical signals.

[0010] Accordingly, in one of its objects, this invention resides in anapparatus for providing therapeutic electrical signals, said apparatuscomprising: a signal generator for generating the therapeutic electricalsignal; a plurality of sets of electrodes, each set of electrodescomprising at least two electrodes for applying the therapeuticelectrical signal to a user; and a switching unit for selectivelyswitching the therapeutic electrical signal to each set of electrodes ina predetermined pattern.

[0011] In a further aspect, the present invention resides in a methodfor providing therapeutic electrical signals, said method comprising thesteps of: (a)generating a therapeutic electrical signal; (b) providing aplurality of sets of electrodes, each set of electrodes comprising atleast two electrodes for applying the therapeutic electrical signal to auser; and (c) selectively switching the therapeutic electrical signal toeach set of electrodes of the plurality of sets of electrodes in apredetermined pattern.

[0012] Accordingly, one advantage of the present invention is that aplurality of sets of electrodes are used to apply the therapeuticelectrical signal. In this way, a large surface of the user can betreated at any one time without the need to move the apparatus over theuser's body. This makes it easier to apply the therapeutic electricalsignal to the user. Furthermore, this makes it easier for the user touse the apparatus on themselves without an assistant.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the electrodes are arranged on aplatform which permits electrodes to substantially conform to thesurface of the user. This facilitates application of the therapeuticelectrical signal to surfaces of regions of the user's body which arenot generally flat. For example, this permits the platform to conform tovariations in the user's back, such as around the spine. This alsofacilitates application of the therapeutic electrical signal to thelower back of the patient, such as along the acupuncture meridian, whichmay result in release of enkefalins by the body to relieve stress.

[0014] In a still further preferred embodiment, the present inventionprovides a flexible platform upon which the electrodes are contained. Inthis way, the entire platform, including the electrodes, cansubstantially conform to the surface of the user for improving thecontact of the electrodes to the surface or skin of the user. In oneembodiment, the flexible platform is separate and remote from thecontrol unit to decrease the mass of the flexible platform and make iteasier to apply and/or strap to the body.

[0015] A further advantage of the present invention is that it comprisesa plurality of sets of electrodes to which the therapeutic electricalsignal is applied in a predetermined pattern. Accordingly, while a largenumber of electrodes are available to be used in order to cover a largesurface area of the user, the therapeutic electrical signal is onlyapplied to a set of electrodes at any one time. In this way, thetherapeutic electrical signal may be applied to electrodes proximateeach other, permitting the therapeutic electrical signal to have asmaller electrical potential than would be required if the electrodeswere distant from each other. Furthermore, this permits the switch toapply the therapeutic electrical signals in a predetermined pattern toachieve the best coverage and therapeutic benefit to the user. Forexample, in a preferred embodiment, the switch will apply thetherapeutic electrical signal to a next set of electrodes in theplurality of electrodes every 0.5 to 2 seconds in order to avoidhabituative effects.

[0016] A still further advantage of the present invention is that thetherapeutic electrical signals can be applied to the sets of electrodesin a predetermined pattern. In this way, the user can control how thetherapeutic electrical signals are applied, including the area, durationand type of therapeutic signal. Preferably, the predetermined patternwill be selected so as to decrease the habituation effect. Thepredetermined pattern can also be selected to provide lingeringbeneficial effects that continue after the procedure is completed. Thiscan result, for example, by selecting a predetermined pattern thatpromotes generation of endorphins that are retained in the body.Furthermore, when the therapeutic electrical signal is applied to theacupuncture meridian, the body may generate enkefalins which willrelieve stress. In addition, by applying the therapeutic electricalsignal in a predetermined pattern as opposed to a random pattern, theuser can be ensured that the therapeutic electrical signal will not beapplied to the same set of electrodes consecutively. Applying thetherapeutic electrical signal to the same set of electrodesconsecutively could result in overexposure of the therapeutic electricalsignals to a particular region of the user's body that may causediscomfort to the patient and/or promote habituation effects.

[0017] A further advantage of the present invention is that thetherapeutic electrical signal can have characteristics which maydecrease or eliminate pain while maintaining an effective therapeuticlevel. This is accomplished, in part, by the therapeutic electricalsignal comprising a base wave having a relatively high frequency ofabout 150 KHz to 180 KHz and more preferably 160 to 170 KHz and the basewave is preferably applied about 2 to 100 times per second. To furtherdecrease pain that may be associated with the therapeutic electricalsignals, the base wave of the therapeutic electrical signal preferablydecreases from its maximum to its minimum in about 0.2 to 0.01microseconds. In a further preferred embodiment, the integral of thebase wave over a cycle is zero.

[0018] A still further advantage of the present invention is that thepredetermined pattern may comprise different types of therapeuticelectrical signals. In other words, the switching unit will selectivelyswitch between different types of therapeutic electrical signals to eachset of electrodes in a predetermined pattern. In this way, the patientwill be exposed to different types of therapeutic electrical signalsthat may have different beneficial effects. In addition, by changing thetypes of therapeutic electrical signals being applied, the habituationeffects may also decrease. In this way, changing the types oftherapeutic electrical signals, as well as limiting the duration thatthe switch may apply the therapeutic electrical signal to each set ofelectrodes to about 0.5 to 2 seconds, reduces the effects of the brainfilters thereby reducing habituation effects, and may cause lingeringbeneficial effects which continue after the therapy is completed.

[0019] A further advantage of the present invention is that anelectroconductive substance can be applied to the electrodes to increaseelectroconductivity. Because the electrodes tend to be stationary, theelectroconductive substance will remain between the skin or surface ofthe user and the electrodes. Further, such electroconductive substancegenerally have the consistency of a gel which gives them an adhesivequality. In this way, the electroconductive substance can assist inkeeping the electrodes in contact with the skin. Furthermore, in thecase when the platform does not have a great deal of mass, such as whena flexible platform is used, the adhesive qualities of theelectroconductive substance may be sufficient to maintain the flexibleplatform in place, especially flexible platform embodiment.

[0020] Further aspects of the invention will become apparent uponreading the following detailed description and drawings which illustratethe invention and preferred embodiments of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] In the drawings, which illustrate embodiments of the invention:

[0022]FIGS. 1A and 1B are bottom and side views, respectively, of adevice according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0023]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the components of theapparatus for applying the therapeutic electrical signal;

[0024]FIG. 3 is a bottom elevation view of the device according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

[0025]FIG. 4 is a timing diagram showing the base wave according to oneembodiment of the present invention;

[0026]FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C are timing diagrams showing different types oftherapeutic electrical signals that may be applied in a predeterminedpattern according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0027]FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a device according to a furtherembodiment of the present invention having a housing separated from theplatform;

[0028]FIG. 7A is a top view of an upper part of the flexible platform;

[0029]FIG. 7B is a bottom view of the lower part of the flexibleplatform; and

[0030]FIG. 8 is a diagram of an assembled flexible platform showing thewiring for the electrodes.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0031]FIG. 1A is a bottom elevation view and FIG. 1B is a side elevationview of an apparatus, shown generally by reference numeral 10, forproviding therapeutic electrical signals according to one embodiment ofthe present invention. As shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the apparatus 10comprises a housing 12 which, in this embodiment, houses the pluralityof electrodes 60. The housing 12 also houses other components, includinginput/output devices, such as a keypad and LEDs 16, as well as a powersource, such as battery pack 8. The housing 12 preferably has an opening112 for straps 114. In this way, the apparatus 10 can be strapped orfastened to a part of the user, such as the lower back or a leg, withstraps 114.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of electrodes 60 aremounted on a platform 50 that permits relative movement of theelectrodes 60. In this way, the platform 50 and/or the plurality ofelectrodes 60 on the platform 50 will be able to substantially conformto a surface of the user so that each of the plurality of electrodes 60is in contact with a surface of the user, even if the surface of theuser is not a flat surface. For example, the platform 50 may be flexibleto permit the electrodes to substantially conform to the surface of thebody. In one preferred embodiment, shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B and 8 anddiscussed more fully below, the platform 50 is made from a flexible,non-conductive material, such as rubber or mylar, which permits theplurality of electrodes 60 to substantially conform to a surface of theuser and also electrically insulates the plurality of electrodes 60 fromeach other. In the alternative, the plurality of electrodes 60 couldmove relative to the platform 50, but be biased outwards so as tosubstantially conform to the surface of the patient. In either case, itis apparent that the platform 50 would permit the plurality ofelectrodes 60 to substantially conform to a surface of the user.

[0033] As also shown in FIG. 1A, the plurality of electrodes 60preferably comprise nipples 61. The plurality of electrodes 60 maycomprise at least one, and preferably more, nipples 61 to assist indecreasing the electrical contact resistance between the plurality ofelectrodes 60 and the surface of the user. In the preferred embodiment,shown in FIG. 1A, each electrode 60 has nine nipples 61.

[0034]FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram symbolically showing the componentsof the apparatus 10 for applying the therapeutic electrical signalaccording to one embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the apparatus 10comprises input/output devices, such as a keypad and LEDs 16, as well asa power source, such as a battery pack 8, which are also illustrated inFIGS. 1A and 1B. As illustrated in FIG. 2, the apparatus 10 can alsocomprise a wall mount adapter 18 and a power supply and trickle charger20, which together form a power unit to both supply power to theapparatus 10 and charge the battery pack 8 for later use.

[0035] The power supply and trickle charger 20 is connected to thekeypad and LED 16 to supply power to this component. The keypad and LED16, together with the power supply and trickle charger 20, are connectedto the signal timing generator 22 to both supply power to the signaltiming generator 22 and also send and receive input/output signals fromthe keypad and LED 16. Preferably, the keypad and LED 16 can send andreceive input/output signals to the signal timing generator 22 whichspecify predetermined patterns and types of therapeutic electricalsignals which should be applied to the plurality of electrodes 60 andwhich predetermined patterns are being applied.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the signal timing generator 22comprises a microcontroller, such as a microprocessor. The signal timinggenerator 22 is connected to a plurality of switches 26. The signaltiming generator 22 actuates the plurality of switches 26 to selectivelyswitch the therapeutic electrical signal to the plurality of electrodes60. The plurality of electrodes 60 are grouped into a plurality of setsof electrodes 60 a to 60 t. The switches 26 selectively switch thetherapeutic electrical signal to each of the sets of electrodes 60 a to60 t in a predetermined pattern.

[0037] As shown in FIG. 2, the first group of switches 26 a switch thetherapeutic electrical signal to the first set 60 a of the plurality ofsets of electrodes 60 a to 60 t. The first set of electrodes 60 a, inthis embodiment, comprises the outer electrode pair no. 1 and the commonelectrode no. 1. Accordingly, in this embodiment, the first set ofelectrodes 60 a comprises three electrodes, namely a common electrode inthe centre and a pair of outer electrodes. As also shown in FIG. 2, theapparatus 10 comprises a 20th set of electrodes 60 t comprising outerelectrode pair no. 20 and common electrode no. 20. Therefore, the 20thset of electrodes 60 t also comprises three electrodes with a commonelectrode in the centre and a pair of outer electrodes. The signaltiming generator 22 switches the therapeutic electrical signal to the20th set of electrodes 60 t by actuating the 20th group of switches 26t. While not shown in FIG. 2, it is apparent that the plurality ofswitches 26 would comprise switches 26 b to 26 s to switch thetherapeutic electrical signal to each set of electrodes 60 b to 60 s.

[0038] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, there are 20 sets ofelectrodes comprising three electrodes for a total of 60 electrodes.However, it is understood that different sets of electrodes anddifferent numbers of electrodes in each set can be used.

[0039] Together, the signal timing generator 22 and the plurality ofswitches 26 form the switching unit, shown generally by referencenumeral 25. The switching unit 25 is used to send the therapeuticelectrical signals selectively to each of the plurality of sets ofelectrodes 60 a to 60 t in a predetermined pattern.

[0040] The therapeutic electrical signal is generated by the signalgenerator 24. The signal, generator 24 will generate a base signal orbase wave b_(w) that is then selectively switched by the switching unit25 to each one of the plurality of sets of electrodes 60 a to 60 t. Thesignal generator 24 is connected to the signal timing generator 22 tocontrol the base wave b_(w) so as to produce the predetermined patternand control the type of therapeutic electrical signal being generated.The signal generator 24 is also connected to a power source, which inthis embodiment is the battery pack 8, to draw sufficient power togenerate the therapeutic electrical signal and the base wave b_(w) thatforms the therapeutic electrical signal.

[0041] In a preferred embodiment, the base wave b_(w) will have a waveform shown in FIG. 4 by reference numeral b_(w). In a preferredembodiment, the base wave b_(w) will have a frequency of between 150 KHzto 180 KHz, and more preferably 160 KHz to 170 KHz. In the preferredembodiment shown in FIG. 4, the base wave b_(w) has a frequency of about166 KHz.

[0042] At a frequency of 166 KHz, the period of the base wave b_(w) willbe about 6 microseconds. Preferably, the base wave b_(w) will decreasequickly from its maximum to its minimum. For example, as shown in FIG.4, the base wave b_(w) will decrease from its maximum value b_(max) ofabout positive 50V to its minimum value b_(min) of about negative 17V ina time t which preferably is within about 0.2 to 0.01 microseconds andstill more preferably within about 0.1 to 0.01 microseconds. In apreferred embodiment, the time t is most preferable about 0.05microseconds. By having the base wave b_(w) decrease from the maximumb_(max) to its minimum b_(min) within this relatively short time period,it has been found that the pain, burns, and other discomfort felt by thepatient is greatly decreased.

[0043] From analysis of the base wave b_(w) shown in FIG. 4, it is alsoapparent that the integral of the base wave b_(w) over time will bezero. This is apparent from FIG. 4 which illustrates that the Area Abetween b_(max) and zero is approximately equal to the Area B betweenb_(min) and zero. This is the case because the value b_(max) is aboutpositive 50V and lasts for a duration of 1.5 microseconds while thevoltage b_(min) is about a third of that, namely negative 17V, but lastsfor three times as long, namely about 4.5 microseconds. Accordingly,Area A is substantially equal to Area B, which illustrates that theintegral of the base wave b_(w) over time will be zero. This alsoillustrates that the net charge imposed on the user by each electrodeover a period of the base wave b_(w) will always be zero. As thetherapeutic electrical signal comprises the base wave b_(w), theintegral over time of the therapeutic electrical signal will also bezero. It has been found that by having a base wave b_(w), and thereforea therapeutic electrical signal, with an integral over time of aboutzero, the overall pain, burns and discomfort suffered by the patientgreatly decreases.

[0044] As stated above, the therapeutic electrical signal comprises thebase wave b_(w). However, it is preferred that the therapeuticelectrical signal is not identical to the base wave b_(w). Rather, it ispreferred that the therapeutic electrical signal comprises bursts of thebase wave b_(w). In other words, the therapeutic electrical signalpreferably comprises bursts of the base wave b_(w) at specificfrequencies, such as 2 to 100 times in a second, and the base wave b_(w)would be quiet or not applied at other times.

[0045]FIG. 5A shows a first therapeutic electrical signal tes_(a) wherethe base wave b_(w) is applied four times in a second. Therefore, thefirst therapeutic electrical signal tes_(a) has a period of about 250milliseconds and a frequency of 4 Hz. During the period of 250milliseconds, the base wave b_(w) is applied for about half that time,or 125 milliseconds. For the remaining period, namely 125 milliseconds,the base wave b_(w) is not applied.

[0046]FIG. 5B shows a second therapeutic electrical signal tes_(b) wherethe base wave b_(w) is applied two times in a second. The secondtherapeutic electrical signal tes_(b) is applied in a burst of about 250milliseconds and then is quiet or not applied for about 250milliseconds. Accordingly, the second therapeutic electrical signaltes_(b) has a period of about 500 milliseconds and a frequency of about2 Hz.

[0047]FIG. 5C shows a third therapeutic electrical signal tes_(c) thathas a period of about 13 milliseconds, and therefore a frequency ofabout 77 Hz. In this embodiment, the base wave b_(w) is applied for aburst of about 3 milliseconds followed by a quiet period where the basewave b_(w) is not applied for about 10 milliseconds. In this way, thethird electrical signal tes_(c) applies the base wave b_(w) 77 times ina second, but for only about 3 milliseconds each time.

[0048] The apparatus 10 can apply any of the therapeutic electricalsignal tes_(a), tes_(b), tes_(c), or any other type of therapeuticelectrical signal. In a preferred embodiment, the therapeutic electricalsignal will comprise a base wave b_(w) applied at a frequency of about 2to 100 times per second. As shown in FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C, the durationor burst during which the base wave b_(w) is applied can vary and maynot correspond to half of the period, as illustrated by the thirdtherapeutic electrical signal tes_(c) in FIG. 5C. Furthermore, thepredetermined pattern of the apparatus 10 may comprise different typesof therapeutic electrical signals, as described more fully below.

[0049]FIG. 3 shows the bottom elevation of the apparatus 10, similar tothe view shown in FIG. 1A. In a preferred embodiment as illustrated inFIG. 3, each of the plurality of sets of electrodes 60 a to 60 tcomprise at least three electrodes 60 arranged in a substantiallychevron pattern. For example, the first set of electrodes 60 a shown inFIG. 3 comprise electrodes 1, 2 and 3. Likewise, the last set ofelectrodes 60 t comprise electrodes 4, 5 and 6. It is apparent that thetwenty chevron patterns between the first set of electrodes 60 a and thelast set of electrodes 60 t illustrate each set of the plurality of setsof electrodes 60 a to 60 t of the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0050] It is preferable that the centre electrode, such as electrodes 2and 5, of the plurality of sets of electrodes 60 a to 60 t, have apotential that is opposite to the potential of the side electrodes 1, 3and 4, 6. To accomplish this, centre electrodes 2, 5 may have differentelectrical switches 26 from the side electrodes. This is illustrated inFIG. 2 where the first group of switches 26 a comprise switches 26 aoand 26 ac. Switch 26 ao actuates the outer electrode pair no. 1corresponding to electrodes 1 and 3 and switch 26 ac actuates the commonelectrode no. 1 corresponding to electrode 2. Likewise, the 20th groupof switches 26 comprise switches 26 tc and 26 to. Switch 26 th actuatesthe outer electrode pair no. 20 corresponding to electrodes 4 and 6 andswitch 26 tc actuates the common electrode no. 20 corresponding toelectrode 5.

[0051] It is understood that the chevron pattern of electrodesillustrated in FIG. 3 is a preferred embodiment and is selected topermit a relatively large area to be effected by the therapeuticelectrical signal, while at the same time having the electrodes fairlynear each other so that the voltage may not be too large to overcome thenatural resistance of the body. Nevertheless, it is understood thatother arrangements of electrodes, other than a chevron pattern,including a square pattern, a circular or semi-circular pattern or evena straight line, could be used provided each set of electrodes 60 a to60 t have at least two electrodes through which the therapeuticelectrical signal may pass.

[0052] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 where a chevron pattern isused, it is apparent that not all of the plurality of electrodes 60 willhave an electrical signal passing through them. For example, electrodesa, b, c, d, e, f do not form a chevron pattern with other electrodes,and therefore would not be used in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3.However, if another pattern, such as a straight line is used, thenelectrodes a, b, c, d, e, f may have electrical signal passing throughthem.

[0053] As stated above, the switching unit 25 will apply the therapeuticelectrical signal to the plurality of sets of electrodes 60 a to 60 t inthe predetermined pattern. The predetermined pattern may be any patternthat switches the therapeutic electrical signal to each set ofelectrodes 60 a to 60 t in a controlled manner without causing thetherapeutic electrical signal to be switched to the same set ofelectrodes twice, thereby causing habituation effects.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment, the switching unit 25 will send thetherapeutic electrical signal sequentially to each set of electrodes 60a to 60 t. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the switching unit 25 willsend the therapeutic electrical signal sequentially in a consecutiveorder commencing with the first set of electrodes 60 a at a first end 30of the apparatus 10 and platform 50 and ending at the last set ofelectrodes 60 t at the second end 32 of the apparatus 10 and platform50. The switching unit 25 may have a predetermined pattern whichcontinuously and repeatedly sends the therapeutic electrical signalsequentially in this consecutive order from the first set of electrodes60 a to the last set of electrodes 60 t. Alternatively, the switchingunit 25 may have a predetermined pattern which sends the therapeuticelectrical signal in alternate directions “sweeping” across the platform50.

[0055] For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the switching unit 25 may firstapply the therapeutic electrical signals in a first direction, showngenerally by the arrows marked with reference numeral 41, from the firstend 30 to the second end 32. The switching unit 25 may then apply thetherapeutic electrical signal in a second direction, shown generally bythe arrows marked with reference numeral 42, from the second end 32 tothe first end 30. For present purposes, a sweep is considered to be anapplication of therapeutic electrical signals once across each of thesets of electrodes 60 a to 60 t in either direction 41, 42 “sweeping”across the platform 50.

[0056] In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the sets of electrodes60 a to 60 t in the first direction 41 will be the same as the sets ofelectrodes 60 t to 60 a in the second direction 42. In other words, thetherapeutic electrical signal will be applied to the same threeelectrodes in each set of electrodes 60 a to 60 t in both directions 41,42. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment.Rather, the sets of electrodes 60 a to 60 t in the first direction 41may differ from the sets of electrodes 60 a to 60 t in the seconddirection 42, provided there are at least two electrodes 60 in each setof electrodes 60 a to 60 t.

[0057] In addition, the therapeutic electrical signal need not be thesame in each direction. Rather, in a preferred embodiment, thetherapeutic electrical signal will change with each “sweep”. Forexample, as set out in Table A below, in sweep 1, which preferably is ina first direction 41, the therapeutic electrical signal will correspondto the first therapeutic electrical signal tes_(a) shown in FIG. 5A andwill be sequentially and consecutively applied to each of the pluralityof sets of electrodes 60 a to 60 t. In sweep 2, which is preferably inthe second direction 42, the therapeutic electrical signal willcorrespond to the second therapeutic electrical signal tes_(b)illustrated in FIG. 5B. Likewise, in sweep 3, which is preferably in thefirst direction 41, the therapeutic electrical signal will correspond tothe third therapeutic electrical signal tes_(c) illustrated in FIG. 5C.TABLE A Bursts Bursts per Dura- Duration per sweep tion for each Pe-sets of (20 sets of of set of Quiet Burst riod elec- electrodes sweepelectrodes Sweep (ms) (ms) (ms) trodes 60) (sec) (sec) 1 125 125 250 480 20 1 2 250 250 500 2 40 20 1 3 10 3 13 77 154 20.02 1

[0058] One advantage of the above is that the application of the basewave b, at the different frequencies, namely 4 Hz, 2 Hz and 77 Hz, willhave different beneficial effects to the patient. For example, afrequency of about 77 Hz has been found to generate endorphins, andenkefalins which tend to relieve stress, and therefore it is preferredfor a pain killing effect. Generation of enkefalins have been found tobe most pronounced when the apparatus 10 is applied to the acupuncturemeridians along the lower back region. The frequencies of 2 Hz and 4 Hzhave been found to generate endorphins.

[0059] Accordingly, the apparatus 10 can apply the therapeuticelectrical signals to the sets of electrodes 60 a to 60 t in apredetermined pattern. In addition, the predetermined pattern of theapparatus 10 can comprise different types of therapeutic electricalsignals tes_(a), tea_(b), tes_(c) at different stages.

[0060] It has been found that, preferably, the therapeutic electricalsignal is applied to a set of electrodes 60 a to 60 t for about 0.5 to 2seconds. For example, as illustrated in Table A above, the therapeuticelectrical signals are applied to each set of electrodes 60 a to 60 tfor a duration of about 1 second. In this way, as there are about 20sets of electrodes in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, each sweep fromone end 30 or 32 to the other end 32 or 30 will take about 20 seconds.The predetermined pattern shown in Table A which comprises three sweepsand three types of therapeutic electrical signals tes_(a), tes_(b),tes_(c) will therefore take about one minute. Preferably, the switch toa next set of electrodes 60 a to 60 t will occur during a quiet periodwhen the base wave b_(w) is not being applied.

[0061] The duration of 0.5 to 2 seconds is preferable because it issufficient to generate endorphins and enkefalins. However, in addition,a duration of 0.5 to 2 seconds is generally insufficient to permit thebody to generate hormones that counteract the beneficial effects ofendorphins and enkefalins. Accordingly, by having the therapeuticelectrical signals applied in a predetermined pattern where theswitching unit 25 switches the therapeutic electrical signal to a nextset of electrodes within 0.5 to 2 seconds, habituation effects maydecrease and the user may experience a build-up of endorphins andenkefalins. In this way, the user may experience a lingering effect fromuse of the apparatus 10, at least in part because of the build-up ofendorphins and enkefalins caused by the use of the apparatus 10.

[0062] Likewise, it has been found that by having a predeterminedpattern that comprises different types of therapeutic electrical signalstes_(a), tes_(b), tes_(c), habituation effects may be further decreasedbecause use of different types of therapeutic electrical signalstes_(a), tes_(b), tes_(c) may bypass the brain filters which cause thehabituation effects. Habituation effects have been found to be furtherdecreased by applying the different types of therapeutic electricalsignals tes_(a), tes_(b), tes_(c) to the user for a duration of not morethan 0.5 to 2 seconds per set of electrodes 60 a to 60 t. Moreover,applying different types of therapeutic electrical signals tes_(a),tes_(b), tes_(c) will also produce different types of beneficialeffects, such as generation of endorphins, as well as generation ofenkefalins. Accordingly, generating and applying different types oftherapeutic electrical signals, tes_(a), tes_(b), tes_(c) across aplurality of electrodes 60 not only helps to decrease habituationeffects, but also provides more than one type of benefit to the user,and, the benefit the user may experience is more likely to linger afteruse of the apparatus 10 has ceased.

[0063]FIG. 6 shows an apparatus, shown generally by reference numeral300, accordingly a further embodiment of the present invention. As shownin FIG. 6, the apparatus 300 has a platform which is separate from ahousing 310 which houses other components of the apparatus 300, such asthe signal generator 24 and switching unit 25. As illustrated in FIG. 6,the housing 310 may also include input/output such as the keypad and LED306. The housing 310 will also preferably contain a power supply andtrickle charger 20 to supply a battery pack 8 and/or receive power froma wall mount adapter 18, similar to the apparatus 10 described above.

[0064] As also illustrated in FIG. 6, the housing 310 is connected tothe platform 50 by an electrical connection, shown generally byreference numeral 313. The electrical connection 313 in this embodimentcomprises a first fixed electrical cable 312 from the housing 310 to aconnector, such as an oyster connector 316. The first cable 312 isgenerally fixed to both the housing 310 at one end 311 and fixed to theconnector 316 at the second end 318. In this way, the connector 316 iselectrically connected to the components of the apparatus 300, includingthe signal generator 24. The connector 316 shown in FIG. 6 is commonlyreferred to as an “oyster” connector, but it is understood that any typeof connector can be used.

[0065] The connector 316 also comprises an input/output slot 319 whichcan releasably receive a first end 419 (shown in FIGS. 7A, 7B and 8) ofa second removable cable 314. The second end 420 (shown in FIGS. 7A, 7Band 8) of the second cable 314 is connected, generally permanently tothe platform 50 providing an electrical connection from the first end419 of the second cable 314 to the electrodes 60 on the platform 50. Inthis way, the first end 419 of the second cable 314 may be releasablymated or received into the input/output slot 319 of the connector 316 tothereby releasably electively connect the components contained withinthe housing 310, and in particular, the signal generator 24, to theelectrodes 60 on the platform 50. In another embodiment, the connector316 is integrally formed as part of the housing 310 such that the firstfixed cable 312 is not needed, but rather the first end 419 of thesecond cable 314 would be releasably received in an input/output slot319 in the housing 310.

[0066] The advantages of the apparatus 300 shown in FIG. 6 include thatthe platform 50 can be removed from the connector 316 for maintenanceand/or servicing. Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, differenttypes of platforms 50, either having different size or differentarrangements of electrodes 60 thereon, may be interchangeably releasablyreceived into the slot 319 of the connector 316. This gives theapparatus 300 shown in FIG. 6 increased versatility.

[0067] Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, the platform 50 may be aflexible platform 350, shown in FIG. 6, but illustrated and discussedbelow in more detail with respect to FIGS. 7A, 7B and 8. In the case offlexible platforms 350, they are generally disposable such that after anumber of uses, the first end 419 of the second cable 314 may bereleasably removed from the slot 319 of the connector 316 and replacedwith the first end 419 of another second cable 314 connected to anotherflexible platform (not shown). In this way, flexible platforms 350,which are generally less resilient, may be replaced periodically andeither disposed of or recycled.

[0068]FIGS. 7A and 7B show a flexible platform 350 according to apreferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7A shows the topview of the upper part of the flexible platform 350U. The upper part ofthe flexible platform 350U includes silver inking connectors 370extending along the second cable 314 to the first end 419. The silverinking connectors 370 are electrically conductive and can conduct thetherapeutic electrical signals received from the signal generator 24through the switches 26, the first cable 312, the connector 316 and thesecond cable 314. In this preferred embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 6,the second cable 314 is integrally formed with the flexible platform 350such that the silver inking connectors 370 will extend past the secondend 420 to connections 340. However, it is understood that the secondcable 314 may be separate from the flexible platform 350 so that afurther connector (not shown) would be present to connect the second end420 of the second cable 314 to the flexible platform 350.

[0069] The connections 340 are electrically connected to the centreelectrodes 60 c shown as the middle row of the three rows of electrodes60 in FIG. 7B. The centre electrodes 60 c are actuated by the centreswitches 26 ac to 26 tc as discussed above with respect to FIGS. 2, 3, 4and 5. In this way, the therapeutic electrical signals can betransmitted from the signal generator 24 to the centre electrodes 60 c.

[0070]FIG. 7B, which shows the lower part of the flexible platform 350L,likewise has silver inking connectors 371 extending along the secondcable 314 to the first end 419 to receive the electrical therapeuticsignal from the signal generator 24, similar to the silver inkingconnectors 370. However, the silver inking connectors 371 in the lowerpart of the flexible platform 350L extend to the outer electrodes 60 oshown at the two external rows in FIG. 7B. The outer electrodes 60 o areactuated by the outer switches 26 ao to 26 to discussed above withrespect to FIGS. 2, 3, 4 and 5.

[0071] It is apparent from FIGS. 7A and 7B that the silver inkingconnectors 370 on the upper part of the flexible platform 350U will beelectrically insulated from the silver inking connectors 371 on thelower part of the flexible platform 350L. It is also apparent that whileelectrodes 60 are all present on the lower part of the flexible platform350L, the middle row will be electrically insulated from the outer tworows, except for electrical contact through the surface of the userthrough which therapeutic electrical signals will flow.

[0072] Preferably, the upper and lower parts of the flexible platform350U and 350L, respectively, are manufactured from an insulated materialupon which the silver inking connectors 370, 371 may be applied. In apreferred embodiment, the upper and lower parts of the flexibleplatforms 350U and 350L, respectively, are manufactured from portions ofmylar, but other substances, such as rubber, plastics, or otherelectrically insulated materials, could also be used.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 7B, the electrodes 60 will have an orientationsuch as a chevron, shown generally by reference numeral 365. In thisway, the therapeutic electrical signal 60 will be applied along achevron pattern, similar to that as discussed above with respect to theapparatus 10. In other words, the electrodes 60 on the flexible platform350 can be used in the same manner as the electrodes 60 on the apparatus10 discussed above.

[0074]FIG. 8 shows the flexible platform 350 in the assembled positionwith the upper part 350U connected to the lower part 350L such as bygluing, laminating or otherwise connecting the upper part 350U to thelower part 350L. As illustrated in FIG. 8, the silver inking connectors370, 371 overlap, but are electrically insulated. For instance, if thesilver inking connectors 370 are on the upper surface 361 of the upperpart of the flexible platform 350L and the silver inking connectors 371are on the lower surface 362 of the lower part of the flexible platform350L, then the upper and lower parts 350U, 350L, respectively, of theflexible platform 350 will act as the electrical insulation. This is thecase because the silver inking connectors 370 are on the upper surface361 of the flexible platform 350 and the silver inking connectors 371are on the lower surface 362 of the flexible platform 350 when the parts350U, 350L are assembled. It will be appreciated by persons skilled inthe art that the same effect could be obtained by having a flexibleplatform 350 manufactured from a single layer of mylar, or otherelectrically insulative substance with the silver inking connectors 370on the upper surface 361 and the silver inking connectors 371 on thelower surface 362, rather than having two parts 350U, 350L connectedtogether.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 8, the flexible platform 350 may also comprise astrap 410. The strap 410 can be integrally formed with the flexibleplatform 350. The strap 410 can be used to strap the flexible platform350 to a region of the user, such as an arm or leg. The strap 410 mayalso be wrapped around the connector 316 to assist in holding the firstend 419 of the second cable 314 to the cable 316.

[0076] It is also understood that the flexible platform 350, with thepresent construction, will be relatively light. An advantage of this isthat the flexible platform 350 can be easily held in place to a regionof the user, such as the user's lower back, with or without a strap 410.

[0077] In a further preferred embodiment, the electrodes 60 have anelectroconductive substance, shown generally by reference numeral 400 inFIG. 8, which increases the electroconductivity of the electrodes 60 tothe skin of the user. The electroconductive substance 400 can be anysubstance which performs this function, but in a preferred embodiment,the electroconductive substance 400 also has adhesive qualities whichcan assist in keeping the flexible platform 350, which may haverelatively little mass, in place on a surface of the user. Theelectroconductive substance 400 can also assist in keeping individualelectrodes 60 in contact with the surface of the user. It is understoodthat while the electroconductive substance 400 is shown as covering onlyfour electrodes 60 in FIG. 8, preferably, the electroconductivesubstance 400 would be applied to all of the electrodes 60.

[0078] While there are a number of electroconductive substances 400which may be used, it has been found that Hydragel (trade mark)manufactured by Hydramar has worked well in experiments. In particular,the Hydragel electroconductive substance 400 increases the electricconductivity of the electrical therapeutic signals from the electrodes60 to the skin of the user, and also, has sufficient adhesive quality tomaintain the flexible platform 350 to the surface of the user. After anumber of uses, however, the electroconductive substance 400 will loseits electroconductive qualities, and may also lose its adhesivequalities. In this case, the flexible platform 350 may simply bereplaced with a new electroconductive substance 400 having theelectroconductive substance 400 applied thereon. In the alternative, theflexible platform 350 may be recycled, such as by being cleaned and afresh electroconductive substance 400 being applied onto the electrodes60.

[0079] It is clear that the therapeutic electrical signals will have anytype of voltage or current required to produce a therapeutic effect aspersons skilled in the art may select. More particularly, while thepresent invention has been described with respect to therapeuticelectrical signals having a base wave b_(w) of a particular voltage, itis understood that the present invention is not limited to therapeuticelectrical signals having this particular voltage, but rather wouldinclude any voltage that would produce therapeutic effects. In addition,the present invention may be used for different types of therapies,including relief of pain, relief of stress, electronic acupuncture andtranscutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), and, the precisevoltage and current of the base wave b_(w) of the therapeutic electricalsignals for each of these therapies may differ. Preferably, anelectroconductive cream, as is known in the art, should preferably beapplied to the surface of the user to improve the electrical contactbetween the plurality of electrodes 60 and the user, thereby decreasingcontact resistance.

[0080] In addition, while the present invention has been described withrespect to three types of therapeutic electrical signals, tes_(a),tes_(b), tes_(c), it is understood that the invention is not restrictedto these particular three types of therapeutic electrical signals. Whilethese three types of therapeutic electrical signals tes_(a), tes_(b),tes_(c) have been found to be preferred therapeutic electrical signals,other types of therapeutic electrical signals may also be used in thepredetermined pattern of this invention.

[0081] It will be understood that, although various features of theinvention have been described with respect to one or another of theembodiments of the invention, the various features and embodiments ofthe invention may be combined or used in conjunction with other featuresand embodiments of the invention as described and illustrated herein.

[0082] Although this disclosure has described and illustrated certainpreferred embodiments of the invention, it is to be understood that theinvention is not restricted to these particular embodiments. Rather, theinvention includes all embodiments which are functional, mechanical orelectrical equivalents of the specific embodiments and features thathave been described and illustrated herein.

The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property orprivilege is claimed are defined as follows:
 1. An apparatus (10, 300)for providing therapeutic electrical signals, said apparatus comprising:signal generator means 24 for generating the therapeutic electricalsignal; a plurality of sets of electrodes (60 a to 60 t), each set ofelectrodes (60 a to 60 t) comprising at least two electrodes (60) forapplying the therapeutic electrical signal to a user; and switchingmeans (26) for selectively switching the therapeutic electrical signalto each set of electrodes (60 a to 60 t) in a predetermined patterncharacterized in that the predetermined pattern sequentially sends thetherapeutic electrical signal in a first direction (41) from a first setof electrodes (60 a) to a last set of electrodes (60 t).
 2. Theapparatus (10, 300) as defined in claim 1 characterized in that: theplurality of sets of electrodes (60 a to 60 t) are arranged on aplatform (50, 350); and wherein the platform (50, 350) permits theelectrodes (60) to substantially conform to a surface of the user, suchthat the electrodes (60) of the plurality of sets of electrodes (60 a to60 t) are in substantial electrical contact with a surface of the user.3. The apparatus (10, 300) as defined in claim 2 characterized in thatthe predetermined pattern sends the therapeutic electrical signalconsecutively to each set of electrodes (60 a to 60 t) commencing withthe first set of electrodes (60 a) near a first end (30) of the platform(50, 350)and ending at a last set of electrodes (60 t) near a second end(32) of the platform (50, 350).
 4. The apparatus (10, 300) as defined inclaim 1 characterized in that the switching means (26) will switch thetherapeutic electrical signal to a next set of electrodes (60 a to 60 t)in the predetermined pattern within 0.5 to 2 seconds.
 5. The apparatus(10, 300) as defined in claim 4 characterized in that the signalgenerator means (24) generates more than one type of therapeuticelectrical signal; and the switching means (26) selectively switchesdifferent types of therapeutic electrical signals to each set ofelectrodes (60 a to 60 t) in a predetermined pattern.
 6. The apparatus(10, 300) as defined in claim 1 characterized in that the predeterminedpattern sequentially sends the electrical therapeutic signal in thefirst direction (41) consecutively commencing with a first set ofelectrodes (60 a) near a first end (30) of the apparatus and ending at asecond set of electrodes (60 t) near a second end (32) of the apparatusand then send the electrical therapeutic signal in a second direction(42) consecutively commencing with a third set of electrodes (60 t) atthe second end (32) to a fourth set of electrodes at the first end (30);and wherein the sets of electrodes (60 a to 60 t) in the first direction(41) differ from the sets of electrodes (60 t to 60 a) in the seconddirection (42).
 7. The apparatus (10, 300) as defined in claim 1characterized in that the sets of electrodes (60 a to 60 t) comprise atleast three electrodes (60) arranged in a substantially chevron patternwith at least a centre electrode (60 c) and at least two side electrodes(60 o); and wherein the centre electrode (60 c) has a potential oppositeto the side electrodes (60 o) when the therapeutic electrical signal isapplied.
 8. The apparatus (10, 300) as defined in claim 7 characterizedin that the predetermined pattern comprises a first type of therapeuticelectrical signal (tec a) and a second type of therapeutic electricalsignal (tec b), said first type of therapeutic electrical signal (tec a)comprising a base wave (bw) applied at a first frequency and said secondtype of therapeutic electrical signal (tec b) comprising the base wave(bw) applied at a second frequency where the first frequency differsfrom the second frequency.
 9. The apparatus (10, 300) as defined inclaim 1 characterized in that the therapeutic electrical signals areused in therapy selected from a group of therapies consisting of reliefof pain, relief of stress, electronic acupuncture and transcutaneouselectrical nerve stimulation (TENS).
 10. The apparatus (10, 300) asdefined in claim 1 characterized in that the therapeutic electricalsignals comprise a base wave (bw) having a frequency between 150 KHz to180 KHz, said base wave (bw) being applied at a frequency of betweenabout 2 to 100 times in a second.
 11. The apparatus (10, 300) as definedin claim 10 characterized in that the switching means (25)will switchthe therapeutic electrical signal to a next set of electrodes within 0.5to 2 seconds.
 12. The apparatus (10, 300) as defined in claim 11characterized in that the base wave (bw) of the therapeutic electricalsignals decreases from a maximum to a minimum within about 0.2 to 0.01microseconds; and wherein an integral against time of the base wave (bw)of the therapeutic electric signals over a complete cycle issubstantially zero.
 13. The apparatus (10, 300) as defined in claim 1characterized in that the signal generator means (24) generatesdifferent types of therapeutic electrical signals by applying a basewave (bw) having a frequency between 150 KHz to 180 KHz at differingdurations and at differing frequencies between 2 Hz to 100 Hz; andwherein the switching means (25) selectively switches different types oftherapeutic electrical signals to each set of electrodes (60 a to 60 t)in a predetermined pattern.
 14. A method for providing therapeuticelectrical signals, said method comprising the steps of: a) generating atherapeutic electrical signal; b) providing a plurality of sets ofelectrodes, each set of electrodes comprising at least two electrodesfor applying the therapeutic electrical signal to a user; and c)selectively switching the therapeutic electrical signal to each set ofelectrodes of the plurality of sets of electrodes in a predeterminedpattern.
 15. The method as defined in claim 14 further comprising thestep of: b1) providing the plurality of sets of electrodes on a platformthat permits the electrodes to substantially conform to a surface of theuser so that substantially all of the electrodes of the plurality ofelectrodes is in electrical contact with the surface of the user. 16.The method as defined in claim 15 further comprising the step of: c1)selectively switching the therapeutic electrical signal to each set ofelectrodes consecutively commencing with a first set of electrodes neara first end of the platform and ending at a last set of electrodes at asecond end of the platform.
 17. The method as defined in claim 14further comprising the step of: b3) providing each set of electrodeswith at least three electrodes arranged in a substantially chevronpattern having a centre electrode and at least two side electrodes. 18.The method as defined in claim 14 wherein the therapeutic electricalsignals comprise a base wave having a frequency between 150 KHz to 180KHz, said base wave being applied at a frequency of between about 2 to100 times in a second.
 19. The method as defined in claim 18, furthercomprising the step of: c2) selectively switching the therapeuticelectrical signal to each set of electrodes in intervals of between 0.5and 2 seconds.
 20. The method as defined in claim 19 wherein the basewave of the therapeutic electrical signal decreases from a maximum to aminimum within about 0.1 to 0.01 microseconds.
 21. The method as definedin claim 20 wherein an integral against time of the base wave of thetherapeutic electric signals over a complete cycle is substantiallyzero.
 22. The method as defined in claim 14 further comprising the stepsof: a1) generating different types of therapeutic electrical signals bygenerating a base wave having a frequency between 150 KHz and 180 KHzand applying the base wave for differing durations and at differentfrequencies between 2 Hz to 100 Hz; and c1) selectively switchingdifferent types of therapeutic electrical signals to each set ofelectrodes in a predetermined pattern.
 23. The apparatus (10, 300) asdefined in claim 1 characterized in that the predetermined patternswitches the therapeutic electrical signals to each set of electrodes(60 a to 60 t) in a controlled manner without causing the therapeuticelectrical signal to be switched to the same set of electrodes twice.24. The apparatus (300) as defined in claim 1 characterized in that theplatform (350) upon which the electrodes (60) are arranged is flexible;and wherein the flexible platform (350) can substantially conform to theregion of the user such that the electrodes (60) of the plurality ofsets of electrodes (60 a to 60 t) are in substantial electrical contactwith the surface of the user.
 25. The apparatus (300) as defined inclaim 24 characterized by: a housing (310) for containing the signalgenerator means (24) and the switching means (26); and an electricalconnection (313) from the housing (310) to the flexible platform forsending the therapeutic electrical signal from the housing (310) to theflexible platform (350) located an the surface of the user.
 26. Theapparatus (300) as defined in claim 25 characterized in that theelectrical connection (313) comprises a connector (316) capable ofreleasably electrically connecting the signal generator means 24 in thehousing (310) with the electrodes (60) on the flexible platform (350).27. The apparatus as defined in claim 26 characterized in that theconnector (316) is electrically connected to the signal generator means(24) in the housing (310) and can interchangeably releasably connectother electrodes (60) of other flexible platforms (350) to the signalgenerator means (24).
 28. The apparatus as defined in claim 26characterized in that the connector (316) is electrically connected tothe signal generator means (24) in the housing (310); and wherein theflexible platform (350) is disposable such that, after a number of uses,the flexible platform (350) can be electrically disconnected from theconnector (316) and the connector (316) is capable of releasablyelectrically connecting the signal generator means (24) to theelectrodes (60) of another flexible platform (350).
 29. The apparatus asdefined in claims 24 to 28 characterized by an electroconductivesubstance (400) having an adhesive quality can be applied to theelectrodes (60) to improve electrical contact between the electrodes(60) and the surface of the user and assists in maintaining the flexibleplatform (350) in place on the surface of the user.
 30. The apparatus asdefined in claim 24 characterized in that the flexible platform (350)comprises a first surface (350U) containing first electrical conductors(370) connected to a first group (60 c) of the plurality of electrodes(60) and a second surface (350L) containing second electrical conductors(371) electrically connected to a second group (600) of the plurality ofelectrodes (60); and wherein the first electrical conductors (370) andthe first group of electrodes (60 c) are electrically insulated from thesecond electrical conductors (371) and the second group of electrodes(60 o).